Selenium is a trace mineral that is present in almost every cell but found most abundantly in the kidneys, liver, spleen, pancreas and testes. It combines with proteins to make selenoproteins, which are antioxidant enzymes. It is part of an antioxidant enzyme Glutathione Peroxidase, that protects cells against environmental and dietary toxins. Selenium increases the ratio of HDL cholesterol to LDL cholesterol, which is important for optimal heart health. Selenoproteins are vital for converting thyroid hormone from a less active form, T4, to its active form, T3. It is also important for a healthy immune system, assisting the body in defending itself against harmful bacteria and viruses, as well as cancer cells. Selenium is able to combine with metals such as cadmium and mercury to reduce their toxicity.

Good sources of selenium include meat, grains, fish and dairy products, but most of the common sources (brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, wholegrains) actually contain a very low level of selenium. The reason for these low levels is that its availability is largely dependent on soil conditions. Sulphur contained in fertilizers and sulphuric compounds found in acid rain inhibit plant absorption of the mineral.

To produce major benefits, between 200-400 mcg a day may be needed. The Food State selenium supplement provides 200mcg per tablet.

In combination with Vitamin E, selenium aids the production of antibodies and helps maintain a healthy heart.

A five-year study conducted at Cornell University and the University of Arizona showed that 200 mcg of selenium per day resulted in 63% fewer prostate tumours, 58% fewer colorectal cancers, 46% fewer lung malignancies, and a 39% overall decrease in cancer deaths.

Food State nutrients are vitamins and minerals that are bonded in a food matrix, without the water and the fibre. Because they are in a food form, they are therefore absorbed easily in the body. They are produced by growing the nutritional yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae in a nutrient enriched medium. The yeast, in the presence of the nutrients, undergoes a process of growth, fermentation and biotransformation to produce a wholesome and concentrated food. An enzyme digestion process then breaks down the yeast membrane so that there is no active yeast left in the Food State supplement.

Although rare, high blood levels of selenium (greater than 100 μg/dL) can result in a condition called selenosis. Symptoms of selenosis include gastrointestinal upsets, hair loss, white blotchy nails, garlic breath odor, fatigue, irritability, and mild nerve damage.